An exciting development in the world of animatronics has emerged from the creative mind of Will Cogley, who has introduced a charming robot that can track human faces using its lifelike eyes. This innovative project showcases Cogley’s expertise in robotics, combining advanced technology with artistic design to create an engaging experience for viewers.
Cogley, well-known for his animatronic projects on YouTube, has successfully embedded a camera within the animatronic eyes of the robot. This clever integration required minimal redesign of his existing mechanism, as he managed to route the camera cable through the current setup. The only alteration was hollowing out the eyeball to accommodate the tiny camera, which features a nearly invisible aperture positioned within the pupil.
On the technical side, the face-tracking capabilities are powered by MediaPipe, a framework developed by Google that enables real-time computer vision. Currently, the system operates on a laptop, but there are plans to incorporate a Raspberry Pi directly into the robot in the future. MediaPipe effectively identifies visible faces and calculates the X and Y offsets needed to direct the servos, allowing the robot’s eyes to follow movements with remarkable fluidity. Cogley has implemented a dead zone in the center of the frame and added smoothing algorithms to enhance the naturalness of the eye motion.
While the specifics of tracking multiple faces have not been disclosed, it appears that the robot will primarily focus on the first face it detects. This feature underscores the robot’s design, emphasizing a streamlined and intuitive interaction with its environment.
To complement the animatronic eyes, Cogley has constructed a small robot body. The head sits on a 3D-printed tapered roller bearing, providing a stable base for movement. A separate printed mechanism allows for pivoting, with both axes controlled by servos. In total, the robot utilizes six motors to achieve realistic head movements that mirror human behavior, creating an engaging and lifelike experience for observers.
Cogley’s previous projects have included a range of impressive animatronics, such as beating hearts and full-motion bionic hands. His innovative spirit continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in robotics, captivating audiences with each new creation. For those interested in seeing the finished product in action, a video demonstration is available on his YouTube channel, with the key reveal starting at the 7:15 mark.
As Cogley’s work continues to evolve, it serves as a reminder of the potential for technology to blend seamlessly with art, sparking both fascination and a touch of unease often referred to as the Uncanny Valley. His developments invite viewers to explore this intersection and share in the wonder of animatronics.
